As the winter solstice approaches, the days grow shorter and the nights grow longer. It’s the perfect time to cozy up with a warm cup of something and a delicious meal that will keep you going all day long. In this article, we’ll share 18 of our favorite winter solstice recipes that are sure to become new family favorites.
From comforting soups and stews to sweet treats and savory main courses, these recipes are designed to warm your heart and fill your belly on the chilliest of nights. Whether you’re a fan of spicy mulled wine or classic hot chocolate, we’ve got something for everyone.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each of these 18 cozy winter solstice recipes, sharing tips and tricks for making them your own. So grab a blanket, get comfortable, and let’s get cooking!
Spiced Mulled Wine with Cinnamon and Orange
As the weather cools down, a warm and aromatic mulled wine is just what you need to cozy up by the fire. This Spiced Mulled Wine with Cinnamon and Orange recipe combines the spices of cinnamon, cloves, and nutmeg with the sweetness of orange to create a delightful winter treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 bottle of red wine (such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon)
– 2 cinnamon sticks
– 6-8 whole cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1 orange, sliced into thin rounds
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the red wine, cinnamon sticks, cloves, and nutmeg.
2. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it starts to simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it cook for 20-25 minutes.
3. Add the sliced orange to the pot and continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
4. If desired, add brown sugar to taste.
5. Strain the mulled wine into cups or mugs and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Thyme
Warm Up with a Hearty Roasted Butternut Squash Soup with Thyme
This comforting soup is perfect for a chilly evening. Roasting the butternut squash brings out its natural sweetness, which is balanced by the earthy flavor of thyme.
Ingredients:
– 1 large butternut squash (about 2 lbs)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme
– 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Cut the butternut squash in half lengthwise, scoop out seeds, and place on a baking sheet.
3. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt.
4. Roast for 45-50 minutes, or until tender.
5. Scoop flesh into a blender or pot, add onion, garlic, thyme, broth, and cream (if using).
6. Blend until smooth, then season to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with additional thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Beef and Barley Stew with Root Vegetables
Warm up on a chilly day with this comforting beef and barley stew, packed with tender root vegetables. A perfect blend of flavors and textures to satisfy your appetite.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound beef chuck or brisket, cut into 2-inch cubes
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup pearl barley
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 medium parsnips, peeled and chopped
– 1 large potato, peeled and chopped
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, brown the beef cubes over medium-high heat, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, parsnips, and potato. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the beef broth, barley, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1 hour.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: About 2 hours
Gingerbread Cookies with Molasses and Cloves
A classic holiday treat gets a boost of warmth and spice from the addition of molasses and cloves, perfect for snacking and gift-giving.
Ingredients:
– 2 1/4 cups all-purpose flour
– 1 teaspoon baking soda
– 1 teaspoon ground ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup unsalted butter, at room temperature
– 3/4 cup white granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup molasses
– 1 egg
– Decorations of your choice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, baking soda, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, and salt.
3. In a separate bowl, cream together butter and sugar until light and fluffy.
4. Beat in molasses and egg.
5. Gradually mix dry ingredients into wet ingredients until a dough forms.
6. Roll out dough on a floured surface to about 1/4 inch thickness. Cut into desired shapes.
7. Place cookies on prepared baking sheet, leaving space for spreading.
8. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until edges are set and centers are slightly soft.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Slow-Cooked Pork Roast with Apples and Sage
This hearty recipe combines tender pork roast with the sweetness of apples and the earthy flavor of sage, all slow-cooked to perfection. Perfect for a cozy weekend dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless pork roast
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 3-4 apples (any variety), peeled and sliced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp dried sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat slow cooker to low.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, brown sugar, and dried sage.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork roast, then place it in the slow cooker.
4. Add sliced onion and apples around the pork roast.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
7. Remove from slow cooker and let rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving.
Cooking Time: 4-10 hours
Warm Quinoa Salad with Roasted Sweet Potatoes
This hearty salad combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes, all wrapped up in a warm and comforting package. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Toss sweet potatoes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions. Fluff with fork and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked quinoa, roasted sweet potatoes, red onion, and cilantro.
4. Drizzle with remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and lime juice (if using).
5. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Classic Hot Chocolate with Whipped Cream
Warm up on a chilly day with this indulgent hot chocolate recipe, topped with a dollop of fluffy whipped cream. Perfect for snuggling up by the fire or sharing with friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk (whole, 2%, or nonfat)
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 2 tablespoons sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Whipped cream (heavy cream, sugar, and a pinch of salt)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the milk over medium heat until it starts to simmer.
2. Add the cocoa powder, sugar, and salt. Whisk until smooth and well combined.
3. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract.
4. Pour into mugs and top with whipped cream (see below for whipped cream recipe).
Whipped Cream Recipe:
1. In a large bowl, beat 1 cup heavy cream and 2 tablespoons sugar until stiff peaks form.
2. Add a pinch of salt to balance the sweetness.
Cooking Time: None! Simply heat the milk mixture in the saucepan and whip the cream as instructed above.
Enjoy your rich and creamy hot chocolate with whipped cream!
Herb-Crusted Lamb Chops with Mint Sauce
Elevate your lamb chops game with this refreshing and aromatic recipe that combines the natural flavors of herbs, garlic, and mint. Perfect for a springtime dinner party or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 lamb chops (1-1.5 inches thick)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary leaves
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh thyme leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup mint sauce (see below)
Mint Sauce:
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped mint leaves
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp honey
– Lemon juice to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, and garlic.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the lamb chops.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cook lamb chops in the oven for 15-20 minutes or until cooked to desired level of doneness.
6. Serve with mint sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Savory Cheese and Onion Tart
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful tart, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner accompaniment. The combination of caramelized onions, gooey cheese, and flaky pastry is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 sheet puff pastry, thawed
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese (or your preferred blend)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out puff pastry on a floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a large skillet, cook onions over medium heat until caramelized and golden brown, about 20-25 minutes.
4. Arrange cooked onions evenly over the center of the pastry, leaving a 1-inch border around edges.
5. Sprinkle grated cheese over the onions.
6. Fold edges of pastry up over the filling, pressing gently to seal.
7. Brush egg wash (beaten egg mixed with a little water) over the pastry to glaze.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Parsnip and Potato Mash
Elevate your mashed potato game with this creamy and delicious twist, featuring parsnips and a hint of nutmeg. This side dish is perfect for the holiday season or any time you want to add some excitement to your meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and chopped into 1-inch cubes
– 1 large parsnip, peeled and chopped into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Freshly grated nutmeg, to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the potatoes and parsnips in a large pot and add enough cold water to cover them.
2. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until tender when pierced with a fork.
3. Drain the potatoes and parsnips and return them to the pot.
4. Add the butter, salt, pepper, and nutmeg, and mash until smooth.
5. Stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half until well combined.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Spiced Pumpkin Bread with Walnuts
This moist and aromatic bread is perfect for the fall season, filled with the warmth of spices and the crunch of walnuts. It’s a delicious addition to your holiday table or a comforting breakfast treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 tsp baking powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp ground cinnamon
– 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg
– 1/4 tsp ground ginger
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup chopped walnuts
– Confectioners’ sugar for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C). Grease a 9×5-inch loaf pan.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, baking powder, salt, cinnamon, nutmeg, and ginger.
3. In a large bowl, combine pumpkin puree, sugar, melted butter, eggs, and walnuts. Stir until smooth.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Pour batter into prepared loaf pan and bake for 50-60 minutes or until a toothpick inserted comes out clean.
6. Let cool on a wire rack before dusting with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
Cook Time: 50-60 minutes
Baked Ham with Maple Glaze and Pineapple
Elevate your holiday gatherings with this mouthwatering baked ham recipe, featuring a sticky maple glaze and sweet pineapple rings. This dish is perfect for special occasions or everyday meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 (4-6 pound) bone-in ham
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 pineapple, sliced into rings
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 325°F (165°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, brown sugar, and Dijon mustard.
3. Place the ham on a rack in a roasting pan, scoring the fat layer with a sharp knife.
4. Brush the glaze all over the ham, making sure to get it into the scored lines.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the pineapple rings and place them around the ham.
6. Bake for 2-3 hours or until the ham reaches an internal temperature of 140°F (60°C).
7. Let the ham rest for 15 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 2-3 hours
Chicken and Dumplings with Carrots and Celery
Soften your palate with this comforting dish that combines tender chicken, fluffy dumplings, and a medley of sweet carrots and crunchy celery.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
– 2 stalks of celery, sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cups all-purpose flour
– 2 teaspoons paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the pot.
2. Add the sliced carrots and celery to the pot, cooking for 3-4 minutes or until they start to soften.
3. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables, whisking constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking continuously. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
5. Add the browned chicken back to the pot, along with the paprika. Simmer until the chicken is cooked through and the dumplings are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Roasted Chestnuts with Rosemary and Sea Salt
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful combination of roasted chestnuts, fragrant rosemary, and savory sea salt. This simple recipe yields a deliciously aromatic treat perfect for movie nights, holiday gatherings, or as a quick pick-me-up.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or dried chestnuts
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Rinse the chestnuts and remove any debris or papery skin.
3. In a bowl, toss the chestnuts with olive oil, rosemary, and sea salt until evenly coated.
4. Spread the chestnut mixture on a baking sheet in a single layer.
5. Roast for 15-20 minutes, shaking the pan halfway through, until the chestnuts are tender and caramelized.
6. Remove from oven and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Homemade Eggnog with Nutmeg and Cinnamon
Classic eggnog gets a warm and cozy twist with the addition of nutmeg and cinnamon. This recipe yields a rich, creamy, and indulgently delicious holiday treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups milk
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup sugar
– 4 large egg yolks
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine milk, heavy cream, and sugar. Heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the sugar dissolves.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together egg yolks and salt until smooth.
3. Gradually pour the warm milk mixture into the egg yolks, whisking constantly to prevent scrambling.
4. Return the saucepan to the stovetop and cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and stir in cinnamon and nutmeg.
6. Let the eggnog cool to room temperature before refrigerating for at least 2 hours or overnight.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Winter Vegetable Gratin with Gruyere Cheese
A hearty, comforting side dish perfect for the colder months, this Winter Vegetable Gratin combines the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables with the richness of melted Gruyère cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 large onion, thinly sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium-sized parsnips, peeled and sliced
– 2 medium-sized carrots, peeled and sliced
– 1 large Brussels sprouts, trimmed and halved
– 1 cup Gruyère cheese, grated
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add parsnips, carrots, and Brussels sprouts; cook for an additional 5 minutes, or until the vegetables start to tenderize.
4. Transfer the vegetable mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with Gruyère cheese.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Citrus-Glazed Salmon with Dill
This recipe combines the richness of salmon with the brightness of citrus and the freshness of dill, perfect for a light and flavorful dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, honey, and mustard.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the citrus glaze evenly over each fillet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the top of each fillet and sprinkle with chopped dill.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Stuffed French Toast
Elevate your breakfast game with this sweet and satisfying treat that combines the warmth of cinnamon with the crunch of fresh apples.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
– 1/2 cup diced apple (Granny Smith or your favorite variety)
– Confectioners’ sugar, for dusting (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a shallow dish, whisk together eggs and milk until well combined.
2. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
3. Dip each bread slice into the egg mixture, coating both sides evenly.
4. Place the coated bread on the skillet or griddle and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, mix diced apple with a pinch of cinnamon.
6. Once the French toast is cooked, place it on a serving plate and fill the center with the apple-cinnamon mixture.
7. Drizzle with melted butter and dust with confectioners’ sugar (if desired).
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes per batch.
Summary
Cozy up this winter solstice with these 18 delicious and comforting recipes. From warm quinoa salads to rich beef stews, these dishes are perfect for cold nights. Sip on spiced mulled wine or enjoy a creamy parsnip mash. Indulge in sweet treats like gingerbread cookies and baked ham with maple glaze. Or try something savory like herb-crusted lamb chops or citrus-glazed salmon. Whatever your taste buds desire, this collection has got you covered for a cozy and satisfying winter solstice celebration.
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